The Sumter County Development Authority successfully hosted their 2nd Annual Fields and Feathers event November 27- 28, 2018. This event, which showcased Sumter County’s unique community and potential economic development opportunities, was attended by state-wide executives from Delta, UPS, Electric Cities of Georgia, Georgia Power and Georgia EMC, as well as a select number of potential prospects.

During the two day event, Fields and Feathers combined business and pleasure by touring guests around the thriving Americus, Georgia downtown district and dynamic industrial park. It also provided access to some of the most exclusive privately owned hunting plantations in Sumter County. On Wednesday, November 27, 2018, attendees enjoyed a skeet shoot and wild game supper at Skeca Plantation, hosted by Sumter County Development Authority Chair Paul Hall. Chris Clark, Executive Director of the Georgia Chamber, spoke to the group on behalf of the GA Chamber and GA Allies.

“I want to applaud the Sumter County Development Authority for hosting statewide developers at their Second Fields and Feathers. Americus has so much to offer, so many opportunities and great leadership. Combined with a world-class technical college and university the future is bright and telling your story and building new partnerships is vital for your success,” said Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber, in his speech to the group.

On Thursday, November 28, 2018, four quail hunts were planned at private plantations hosted by local community leaders, and then the entire group participated in a pheasant shoot. The guests ended their day at 13th Colony Distilleries, where they sipped on South Georgia’s most celebrated libations, enjoyed music by the Plucktones, tasted a delicious fish fry by celebrity chef Leon Gatewood/Cousins Catering and hospitality at the historic Windsor Inn.

“Businesses, developers, and corporate projects are attracted to our area because of our supportive, diverse community, and our beautiful land and lakes. We are also a thriving college town, thanks to being home to Georgia Southwestern University and South Georgia Tech,” said Barbara Grogan, Sumter County Development Authority Executive Director. “Our Fields and Feathers event allows potential prospects and state-wide influencers a two-day immersion, allowing them to see an intimate view of  Sumter County’s amazing industrial site opportunities, meet our local successful entrepreneurs and get a taste of our strong sense of community.”

“I would like to congratulate the Sumter County team on an outstanding Fields & Feathers event.  Everything was well done, well organized and world class.  What makes the event really special is the teamwork and participation from local officials, the education community, and the private sector.  Sumter County is truly open for business”, Jim Lovett, Regional Project Manager with Georgia Power and one of this year’s participants.